Anniversary Post #6: If I've Learned Anything....

Wrapping up the Anniversary Week blogs with this one. :) After ten years together, we've endured so much. Alot of laughter, many tears, a few fights here and there, countless celebrations and plenty of heart-to-hearts have made us much wiser after all this time. We're not perfect, so by no means do I expect our marriage to be perfect. Here are OUR tips/must-have's (in no particular order) to survive and stay in love. Because what's the point in staying together if you aren't happy?!

 

• Make time for yourself. Even though you're married, that does not mean you need to spend all of your time together. Whether you choose to spend some time alone or with friends, it's important to get away. This is where Jordan and I differ. I would prefer to just have a few hours to myself getting a pedicure and reading a book where I can enjoy the quiet; Jordan would rather meet up with some buddies.
• Make time for yourselves; especially after you have kids. It's easy to get 'lost' and just keep going through the motions. Sometimes, you just need to reconnect with each other, and you definitely shouldn't feel guilty about getting a sitter. We're thankful our daycare does a parents' night out every month!
• I know it sounds obvious, but communication is key. Nobody is a mindreader, so if you don't let  me know what I did that pissed you off, how will I know!? But at the same time, it's all about the delivery. Jordan often tells me I need to work on my delivery. :)
• Split the responsibilities. Our rule of thumb is if I cook, Jordan cleans up. And we usually tag team on the laundry. This past year, we finally gave in and hired a house cleaner, and it has been amazing! It wasn't fair to either of us to spend our day off cleaning this big 'ol house, when we'd rather enjoy some quality time with the family.
• Pick your battles. Sometimes you just have to let things go. Simple as that.
• Make sure you enjoy plenty of 'together time' and make it a priority. I won't elaborate any further on this one. :)
• When things get bad, remember one of the things that you love about the other person and/or drew you to them in the beginning. Then build back up on that. There's a reason you're together to begin with.
• Never go to bed mad at each other. We've tried to go to bed after a fight before; it's useless. Nobody gets any sleep and those emotions just fester up even more. There have been times where we've stayed up til 4am hashing something up.